Education is free and compulsory for five years in Colombia. Illiteracy is declining, having dropped from an estimated 90% at the end of the 19th century to an estimated 8.2% in 2000 (males, 8.2%; females, 8.2%).
Aguardiente (or guaro because the locals refer to it as) is a clear, anise-flavored (black licorice) alcohol that’s available throughout the country.
Columbia celebrates Easter with processions, retreats, Masses and other events from Monday through Thursday. The most famous celebrations take place in Popayan and Mompox. The Last Supper is reenacted on Thursday. On Good Friday, there are masses and solemn rites, along with the crucifixion.